1.
unusual; not ordinary; abnormal
Describes something that deviates from what is considered normal or standard. Can be neutral, negative (something is wrong), or positive (something is exceptionally good).
あの人の行動は普通でない。
That person's behavior is not normal.
普通でない暑さが続いている。
The unusual heat continues.
彼女の才能は普通でない。将来が楽しみだ。
Her talent is extraordinary. I look forward to her future.
この状況は普通ではないので、専門家に相談したほうがいい。
This situation is not normal, so you should consult a specialist.
Composed of 普通 (normal; ordinary) + でない (is not). In polite speech, becomes 普通ではない or 普通ではありません. Can modify nouns: 普通でない量 (an unusual amount).
The tone depends on context:
- Negative: something is wrong or alarming (普通でない様子 — an abnormal appearance)
- Positive: something is impressively exceptional (普通でない実力 — extraordinary ability)
- Neutral: simply noting deviation from the norm
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 普通でない量: an unusual amount
- 普通でない状態: an abnormal state
- 普通でない才能: extraordinary talent
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 異常: abnormal; anomalous — stronger and more formal, often implies a problem
- 尋常でない: extraordinary; out of the ordinary — literary, emphasizes extreme deviation
- 変: strange; odd — more casual and subjective